Introduction
After renovating the bathroom in the second article of this series, we made an important decision regarding the house layout: moving the main entry from the north side to the south side. This reflection led to transforming the former entry into a new WC, thus optimizing the available space. The former WC will be transformed into a second bathroom for the parental bedroom, a project we'll tackle later in the renovation.
This project of creating a WC from the former entry was an interesting challenge, as it required completely rethinking the space, installing a window for natural light, and creating all necessary installations (plumbing, electricity) in a space that wasn't initially intended for this purpose.
Interior Preparation
Inside, I started by preparing the space. It was necessary to demolish existing elements related to the former entry and prepare the structure for new installations. I removed the finishes, exposed the walls, and prepared the space for installing the metal framework and plumbing.
This preparation phase was crucial to have a solid base for all upcoming installations.
Drywall Installation
I installed a metal framework (rails and studs) to create partitions and prepare the space for drywall. This framework also allows hiding electrical and plumbing conduits.
For plumbing, I installed drainage and water supply pipes. The drainage system was designed for the WC and sink. Water supply pipes were installed in multilayer, arriving from the ceiling to facilitate access and maintenance.
I also prepared connections for the radiator, which will be necessary to heat this small room.
I installed moisture-resistant drywall panels (green) on the walls. The drywall was laid ensuring necessary openings for plumbing and electrical connections.
Once the drywall was installed, I performed jointing to prepare the walls for painting.
WC Drainage System
To create the WC drainage system, I had to dig a trench outside the house to install PVC drainage pipes. This step was essential to connect the new WC to the existing sewage system.
Inside, I also prepared the drainage connections that will pass through the metal framework and drywall to reach the wall-mounted WC. The most difficult part was piercing through the concrete floor to route the pipes to the exterior.
The Entry Change
After much consideration, we decided to move the main entry of the house from the north side to the south side. This decision was motivated by several reasons: better orientation, more practical access from the garden, and optimization of circulation within the house. The former entry, located on the north side, was in a space that could be better utilized.
Rather than leaving this space unused, we decided to transform it into a WC. This allowed us to optimize the available space and create an additional functional room in the house.
Closing the Former Entry
The first step was to close the opening of the former entry. I used cellular concrete blocks to fill the door opening. This step was important to create a solid and insulated wall, ready to receive a new window.
The work was done progressively, laying the blocks row by row, ensuring proper alignment and using appropriate mortar. Once the blocks were laid, I applied a render to prepare the surface before window installation.
Window Installation
To bring natural light and ensure good ventilation in the future WC, I installed a new window in the exterior wall. This window was positioned to optimize natural lighting while preserving the privacy of the room.
Installing the window required precise cutting in the wall, then mounting the frame and glazing. Once installed, the window brings beautiful light to the space and allows natural ventilation.
At the end of the renovation, we hired a professional to apply the external rendering, improving both the appearance and protection of the exterior wall.
Radiator Installation
I replaced the larger radiator with a smaller one, since the room is now insulated. I simply connected the new radiator to the existing plumbing.
I installed a cast-iron radiator on the left wall of the WC. The installation required particular attention to ensure good alignment and perfect level.
Connections to the heating circuit were made with copper pipes.
Floor Preparation
To prepare the floor, I first poured a screed to level and create a solid base. Once the screed was dry, I applied a self-leveling compound to obtain a perfectly flat surface, essential for tiling installation.
The self-leveling compound allows obtaining a smooth and regular surface, even if the screed has slight imperfections. This is an important step to guarantee quality results when laying tiles.
WC Installation
For the WC, I chose a GROHE wall-mounted system. This choice optimizes space and provides a modern, clean look. The cistern is recessed in the wall, hidden behind a chrome flush plate.
Installing the GROHE system required precise preparation of the metal framework to accommodate the cistern. I then installed the cistern and prepared water and drainage connections.
The wall-mounted system offers several advantages: easier cleaning, modern design, and better space utilization.
Tiling
I tiled the floor with large light grey tiles, the same as those used in the bathroom. The tiling was laid using a leveling system to ensure perfect results, with regular joints and a flat surface.
The choice of large light grey tiles visually enlarges the space and creates a modern, clean atmosphere.
Final Result
The WC is now complete and functional. The result is a modern and clean space with a soothing color palette: white walls, a sage green accent wall, and a light wood panel that conceals the WC cistern.
For finishing, I installed a white wall-mounted vanity with integrated sink and chrome faucet, a round mirror with black frame suspended by a leather strap, a chrome towel ring, and a pendant light with glass shade.
This transformation of the former entry into a WC has allowed us to optimize the house space while creating a functional and aesthetic room. The window installation brings beautiful natural light, and the modern design makes this space pleasant to use.
What I Learned
This project allowed me to learn new skills, particularly installing a wall-mounted WC system. I also learned to better plan plumbing and electrical installations in a confined space.
Transforming an existing space (the former entry) into a new function (WC) required deep reflection on space organization and necessary installations. It was an interesting challenge that resulted in a satisfying outcome.
Conclusion
The creation of this new WC from the former entry is now complete. It was an ambitious project that allowed us to optimize the house space while creating a functional and aesthetic room. The WC is now ready to use, and the former WC can be transformed into a second bathroom for the parental bedroom in a later stage of the renovation.